About Our Lab

Our main research priority at the REBEL Lab is AI and healthcare simulation "trust engineering," or an initiative to ensure reliability, credibility, and trustworthiness of AI and simulation technologies and the research conducted within these fields.

Current Studies

The Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research is seeking MGH IHP HPEd students interested in conducting research on artificial intelligence in healthcare and simulation. Students will work closely with REBEL Lab researchers, a collaborative group focused on advancing AI-enabled simulation science, trust engineering, and technology-enhanced learning. No prior AI experience is required; curiosity and commitment are what matter most. If interested, please email us at: rebel [at] mghihp.edu (rebel[at]mghihp[dot]edu)

Examines the impact of an AI-enhanced virtual reality communication training program on nursing students’ interpersonal performance and skill acquisition.
 

Compares learner performance, knowledge retention, and experiential outcomes across AI-based instruction, simulation-based training, and traditional lecture modalities.
 

Assist one of our PhD students in developing and evaluating a structured implementation framework to guide the integration of artificial intelligence within healthcare simulation in health professions education.
 

Investigates how AI-augmented debriefing and feedback conversations influence learner reflection, engagement, and performance improvement.
 

Explores the effectiveness of AI-driven interventions in enhancing learners’ verbal communication skills in clinical and simulated environments.

Our Lab's Pillars of Trust Engineering

illustration of three test tubes in a holder

AI Assurance Lab

Question: Does the AI application, stand-alone or tied to another technology, do what it says it does?

AI Assurance Lab ensures AI-sim systems are safe, trustworthy, and aligned with risk, ethics, and compliance.

Dr. Maria Bajwa, Lead Researcher

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Research Validation Lab

Question: How credible is the knowledge we know?

We replicate published simulation and AI studies to verify claims and validate knowledge.

Dr. Reem Alansari, Lead Researcher
Dr. Michael Cassara , Lead Researcher

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Methodological Guidance

Question: How can I conduct effective and trustworthy AI and simulation research?

We offer consulting services and educational programs that help individuals and organizations design, implement, and publish rigorous, reliable research.

Healthcare Simulation Research Courses

Ready to Collaborate?

Whether you’re developing a new AI tool or evaluating an existing simulation method, the REBEL Lab offers expert guidance and partnership opportunities in Trust Engineering.
 

Simulation-based Education Awards

 

Presidential Citation

2022 | Society for Simulation in Healthcare. For writing and publishing the society's first textbook on healthcare simulation and programs.

 

Book of the Year Award

2021 | American Journal of Nursing. Most valuable texts of 2020, as chosen by AJN’s panel of judges.

 

Articles of Influence

2023 | International Meeting for Simulation in Healthcare. Mosher, C., Morton, A. & Palaganas, J.C. (2022). Perspectives of Engagement in Distance Debriefing. Advances in Simulation.

 

Excellence in Advancing Interprofessional Education and Practice

2021 | MGH Institute of Health Professions. For the creation and implementation of a highly successful PhD Program that creates career pathways for Interprofessional Health Professions Educators in Interprofessional Simulation Education.

Lab Team

Janice C. Palaganas, PhD, RN, NP, ANEF, FNAP, FAAN, FSSH

Founding Director, Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research Principal Investigator, REBEL Lab Professor, Health Professions Education

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Lead Researcher Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research - REBEL Lab

Reem Alansari has long dark brown hair and is wearing a white and blue top.

Lead Researcher Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research - REBEL Lab

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Engineer REBEL Lab (CoE in HSR)